Oxford United face Newcastle United on Saturday in the fourth round of the FA Cup, and HITC pundits give their predictions on the likely outcome.
Oxford 0-3 Newcastle
An away tie in the FA Cup is always tricky, but Newcastle are full of confidence and determined to put a cup run together. This won’t quite be a walk in park as the predicted scoreline suggests, but a late flurry of goals will make it look like one.
Oxford 1-3 Newcastle
The Magpies are finally treating the FA Cup with the respect it deserves this season and Rafa Benitez is one of the most impressing knockout managers in the business. Even without Dwight Gayle, the impressive form of Daryl Murphy and Ayoze Perez means Newcastle will have too much for Oxford.
Oxford 0-2 Newcastle
Oxford aren’t a bad team but Newcastle have remarkable depth in their squad for a Championship team. Rafa Benitez’s men put together a good run in the League Cup and good do likewise in the FA Cup with a favourable run.
Oxford 1-2 Newcastle
This one may be closer than first thought but Newcastle should come out as the victors given their strength in depth and their desire to avoid a giant-killing.
Oxford 0-2 Newcastle
Newcastle have the squad to balance both the Championship and the FA Cup, and Rafa will give the chance for several talented players to make a case for a greater role in the challenge for the league title.
Oxford 1-2 Newcastle
Although only one league apart now (it was three last year) Newcastle’s squad is still one of vast Premier League quality, and leaves them in a strong position for this one even if Rafa decides to rotate.
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